By Matik Kueth
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation emphatically denied widespread social media rumors alleging President Salva Kiir’s death, labeling the reports as false, malicious, and intended to destabilize the country.
The rumors gained traction after a Kenyan blogger and activist posted on social media that Kiir had died.
The post spread swiftly, causing confusion and alarm among the public.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry reassured the South Sudanese people, regional partners, and the international community that Kiir is alive, healthy, and actively carrying out his presidential duties.
“His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit is alive, well, fully engaged in national service, and continues to lead with vigor, commitment, and sound health,” the statement read in part.
The government lambasted the spread of “deliberate misinformation” aimed at inciting panic and undermining the country’s peace and security.
It described the rumors as “baseless and irresponsible,” manufactured by detractors of peace, development, and nation-building.
“This fake news campaign serves only those who aim to disrupt South Sudan’s hard-won peace and progress,” it stated.
The Foreign Ministry also urged the public to disregard the rumors and avoid spreading unsubstantiated information.
President Kiir has faced death rumors on several occasions, most recently in 2016 during the country’s fatal political crisis.